Then and now...

What a difficult time; a difficult pain and a difficult reality. And, what reality is that? It's not the reality that most assume- which is racial tension is still alive or politics will always be politics- these are things that will withstand with time. The difficulty underneath this very harsh reality is a cry for help. A cry to understand why something so devestating took place in the lives of many people of different races. The obstacle is not the color that binds and sadly divides us; it's the colorless reality that we must do a better job of preparing adults and children of all races and sexes to be aware that actions and reactions can ruin the construct of our belief in democracy and love for one another.

John Vito Mason. This name will mean nothing to the vast majority of you, because you do not recognize it. However, he is my nephew. My one and only nephew at this time. I think about him, now as a 3 year old, and I wonder about him in the future as a 13 year old. I wonder if we can teach him enough about being a good person, citizen, and a man to keep himself out of harms way. But, I'm not so sure that what we teach him will inevitably save him. Nevertheless, we must teach, hope, and pray.

This world is full of all kinds of human-beings; we are common people who make decisions and mistakes that can ill affect our life at any moment. None of us, no matter our race or position, are flawless. But, we condemn each other in times like this as if we are the guaranters of perfection- of righteousness. I cannot bestow that right to anyone on this earth.

There is a larger concern- a greater cry. We must do a better job of educating and preparing the people who serve and protect this country to deliver the best possible actions in situations like this. Furthermore, we must teach our children to respect the very people that we call upon in times of desparity to protect us. If we continue to live an eye for an eye- we will never heal. It cannot be one sided; it cannot be so black and white. It is simply not that simple.

John Vito Mason. If I die today, I want you to know that you matter. You are pride and joy to me; a smile that comes effortlessly. You are important in this world, and you will be recognized. The question is: How will you be recognized? How will you be remembered in your life? I do not want you to live in vain, and I certainly would not want your life to be taken in vain. So, listen to this plea:

You must respect that we live in a society that is no stranger to good and bad people of all kinds. If you surround yourself with people on the wrong side of the line or if you place yourself in situations that could produce the worst of consequences- then you too could be this story. Live your life to the best of your ability by being the very best person you can be. Love your life enough to recognize it is a gift and a blessing, and as such must be lived with care. Never take it for granted. It is a timeless moment...

We cry because it hurts. It is the epitome of pain to wonder how we could have prevented such a devastating act on both ends; to think of how we may have changed such an extreme unfortunate act. There is no justice that can change the moment, but there is justice in building a response to the core concerns embedded in this situation.